Pancake Tortoise

Looks how to spot one

shell

The shell is unusually flat and flexible, with a thin covering of horny scutes. This soft, pliable shape allows the tortoise to wedge itself into narrow rock crevices for safety.25

Personality what they are like

Pancake tortoises are generally shy and secretive, spending most of their time hidden in rock crevices. They are not aggressive but males may fight if only one female is present. They are most active in the morning and early evening.164

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Low activity; they bask and forage for only an hour or two each day. Provide a secure hiding place and a warm basking spot. They do not hibernate.46

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Minimal grooming; keep the enclosure clean and provide a shallow water dish. Occasional misting of the hide area helps mimic natural crevice humidity.6

Home where they are happiest

A dry, warm vivarium with a high daytime temperature (around 30°C) and a cooler area. Provide rock crevices or artificial hides. They are native to rocky kopjes in arid savannah and do not tolerate cold or damp conditions. Note: This species is protected under CITES and may be illegal to keep without permits in some countries; always check local laws.162

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Herbivorous: dry grasses, succulents, fallen fruit, and other vegetation. In captivity, offer a variety of leafy greens, vegetables, and occasional fruit. They obtain most water from food.16

Company who they like around

Generally solitary but can be kept in pairs or small groups if space allows. Males may fight over females, so separate sexes if aggression occurs. They are not venomous, but collection for the pet trade is a major threat to wild populations; captive breeding is encouraged.162

The story where it all began

The pancake tortoise has been popular in the exotic pet trade for decades because of its unusual flat shell and small size. This demand has led to heavy exploitation in Kenya and Tanzania, where it is now protected under CITES Appendix II. Its specialised habitat of rocky kopjes and low reproductive rate (usually one egg per year) make it vulnerable to over-collection. Conservationists recommend captive breeding and strict regulation of trade.12

Recognised by the official bits

CITES

Listed on Appendix II; a proposal to uplist to Appendix I has been recommended due to overexploitation for the pet trade2